Louis H. Roberts

Our beloved Louis Roberts, known affectionately as Papa, Uncle Daddy and Unc, took his final bow on August 19, 2025, at the age of 93. Born on December 2, 1931, in Selma, Louisiana, Louis lived a life that was filled with spirit, wit and an unyielding dedication to those he loved. At an early age he accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. His was a life that combined a love of faith, family, fraternity and football, always ready with a kind word or a hearty laugh.

A lifelong learner and inspiring educator, Louis was the valedictorian of his class at Peabody High School in 1950. He continued his academic journey at Dillard University, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education in 1954. Upon graduation, he served his country in the United States Army for two years, earning an honorable discharge as a Private First Class. After 19 years in the classroom, Louis earned a Masters Degree in Administration from Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, Louisiana. He continued to inspire as an Assistant Principal at Bolton High School for 14 years until his retirement. As a Life Member of his fraternity, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., he was recently recognized for his dedication and generosity resulting in them creating "The Ice Cold Brother of the Year" award in his honor.

Papa, as his family lovingly referred to him, was a generous soul who loved music, gardening and taking care of his loved ones. His mustard and collard greens were the stuff of legends, just like his love for his family. He was a stalwart member of the Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church, serving as a choir member, trustee and committee member of the building design for the new sanctuary. His faith was an integral part of his life, as reflected in the verse from the Bible, Jeremiah 29:11, "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

Louis leaves behind his loving wife of 68 years, Iola, daughters Sheryl René Roberts and Lisa Roberts Zelich (Neven), granddaughter Lauren René Walker, grandson Craig Jerome Walker, II, brother Dr. Jonathan Roberts (Geraldine) and a host of other loving relatives and friends. Louis is preceded in death by his father Henry Roberts, mother Palestine Roberts, son Louis Alfred Roberts, brothers Earnest and Clenord Roberts and sister Katherine Hobdy.

As we bid farewell to our loving Uncle Daddy, we encourage everyone to share their memories and photos of Louis on the memorial page. Let's celebrate his life and the joy he brought to each one of us. Louis may have taken his final bow, but his love continues in all who had the privilege of knowing him.